Maldives new Defence Minister has said that the two helicopters gifted by India will remain in Maldives. <br />''  <br />'' Mariya Ahmed Didi, who was sworn in on Saturday, told a news channel that it is not in their culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give. <br />''  <br />'' She added that the helicopters can be put to good use such as evacuations and search and rescue operations. <br />''  <br />'' The comments assume significance as Maldives requested India to take back the two helicopters during the former regime of Abdulla Yameen. <br />''  <br />'' The government was even refusing to renew the visas of personnel deployed for its operations and maintenance. India had gifted the Dhruv helicopters in 2013 following a request from Maldives. <br />''  <br />'' They were primarily used for emergency medical evacuation and to conduct search and rescue operations over water. <br />''  <br />'' The new administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has asserted that it will be working to improve bilateral relations with India. <br />''  <br />'' Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid will be visiting New Delhi next week in preparations for state visit of Mr. Solih. <br />'' <br />